Thousands of Displaced Cambodians Still Unable to Return Amid Thai Border Tensions

PHNOM PENH, May 29, 2026 (KPT) — More than 30,000 displaced people remain unable to return to their homes along the Cambodia–Thailand border due to continuing insecurity and what Phnom Penh has described as Thai aggression, the Ministry of Interior said Friday.

In a statement issued May 28, the ministry reported 30,079 people — including 15,529 women and 10,132 children — were still displaced despite a ceasefire that took effect in December last year.

Authorities said that while more than 620,000 residents had already gone back, thousands of families continued to face uncertainty in conflict-affected border areas.

Officials accused Thailand of failing to fully implement agreements reached under the Joint Statement of the 3rd Special General Border Committee following the December 27 ceasefire.

The ministry said it was documenting alleged violations and acts of “bad faith” by the Thai side while pursuing diplomatic and legal measures.

The conflict’s impact continues to disrupt public services in provinces near the frontier. Schools and health facilities in Oddar Meanchey, Banteay Meanchey and Preah Vihear remain closed due to security concerns.

Cambodia has repeatedly called for disputes to be resolved peacefully through dialogue, diplomacy and international law.

The government said it remained committed to restoring stability and ensuring displaced residents could safely return once conditions allow.